August Wilson's MA RAINEY'S BLACK BOTTOM

August Wilson’s *Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom* is set in 1920s Chicago during a tense recording session led by trailblazing blues singer Ma Rainey. Rousing music, wry comedy, and poetic insight accompany the growing conflict between Ma Rainey’s musicians and the studio executives who seek control over their art. The production examines the racial exploitation embedded in the music industry while celebrating the blues as a source of power and release.

Directed by Lili-Anne Brown and co-produced with Olney Theatre Center, this acclaimed play builds toward a shattering finale as struggles over art, authority, and ownership intensify.

When: September 9–October 11, 2026

Venue: Round House Theatre

Tickets: Price not available. Pay-What-You-Can performances are scheduled for September 9 and the September 12 matinee. Free Play tickets may be reserved by students ages 13 through college.

Run time: Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission.

Cast: Nicole Michelle Haskins as Ma Rainey; Yao Dogbe as Levee; Ro Boddie as Toledo; Craig Wallace as Cutler; Derrick Truby as Slow Drag; Jaylen Henderson as Sylvester; Kanysha Williams as Dussie Mae; Chris Genebach as Sturdyvant; Michael Glenn as Irvin; and Zach Brewster-Geisz as Policeman.

Accessibility and special performances: The September 19 matinee is audio-described. Open-captioned matinees are scheduled for September 20 and September 26. The October 10 matinee requires masks.

Black Out Night: October 6.

Post-show discussions: Discussions follow the performances on September 9, September 10, and the September 20 matinee.

Designer Discussion: September 9 at 6:45 p.m.

Director Discussion: September 11 at 6:45 p.m.

Teen Night: September 11.

Content advisories: Content advisories are available for this production.

Presentation: The production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals on behalf of Samuel French, Inc.

Sponsorship: The production is sponsored by Judy and Leo Zickler.